Inspections

OVERVIEW

The compliance unit is a team of experienced paramedics with a combined field experience level of almost 50 years.  These paramedics travel throughout the state to each of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers to assure compliance with the minimum EMS standards established in state law.

PURPOSE

The compliance unit periodically and randomly inspects licensees for compliance with Section 401, Florida Statute and Chapter 64J-1, Florida Administrative Code.  The purpose of the statewide inspection program is to monitor the quality of patient care (patients of all ages) delivered by each licensed service and appropriately certified personnel.

Process

• 40% of inspections are random unannounced with the remaining 60% announced approximately one week prior.
   

• Providers can expect (you are due) an inspection within 90 days for a new provider, every 24 months thereafter on a random basis, or when a complaint is received.

The inspection process is carried out without impeding patient care. 

The areas inspected are:

Personnel Records

Service Records and Facilities 

BLS Vehicle

ALS Vehicle

Equipment Test

Neonatal Vehicles (DH 1831, June 99)

Air Ambulance

Narrative 

Inspection Corrective Action (DH 1831, October 05)

The inspection process is geared toward providing technical assistance to the provider to help correct any deficiencies found before the end of the survey, if possible.

Sample agenda

• The compliance officer will show up (either announced or unannounced) at the location of the physical address listed in the provider data on your license. 

• The compliance officer will identify him/herself and ask to see the EMS director.

• Personnel records including current motor vehicle and driver’s license record will be inspected.

• Service records and facilities including:

• Medical Director documentation

• storage and security of records

• supplies and controlled substances

• Vehicle inspection (BLS/ALS/Air/Neonate)

•  Corrective action (if necessary) will be discussed and provided in writing.